Fort Lyon Control Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Fort Lyon Control Basin in Colorado, managed by the USDA NRCS, is a private irrigation structure completed in 1959.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 13 feet high and spans 2188 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1249 acre-feet. Located on the Arkansas River, this basin serves the primary purpose of irrigation and has a normal storage capacity of 644 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 121 acres.

This significant structure in Prowers County, Colorado, is regulated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its functionality and safety. With a hazard potential rated as 'Significant' and a risk assessment indicating a high risk level of 2, the Fort Lyon Control Basin is closely monitored to prevent any potential emergencies. The condition assessment in 2019 reported the structure as 'Satisfactory', meeting guidelines for risk management measures, although no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Fort Lyon Control Basin will find a well-maintained irrigation facility with a rich history dating back to its completion in the late 1950s. With its location on the Arkansas River, this earth dam plays a crucial role in water management in the region, providing essential irrigation for agricultural activities. As a privately owned and state-regulated structure, the Fort Lyon Control Basin serves as a key example of sustainable water resource management in Colorado, ensuring water availability for the local community and supporting regional agricultural practices.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

2188

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

121

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1249

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.